Live like a royal at these heritage luxury hotels in India

Lores, Luxury and Legacy: Leading heritage hotels in India

Hotel

Tourism

September 14, 2024

/ By / New Delhi

Live like a royal at these heritage luxury hotels in India

Heritage luxury hotels blending modern amenities with royal grandeur for an opulent, comfortable stay

Many of the erstwhile palaces in India have been converted into luxurious hotels offering tourists a chance to experience the opulence and grandeur of the former royals.

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From awe-inspiring architecture to exquisite cuisine, modern luxury hotels and resorts often offer an opulent stay with all amenities to provide utmost comfort to guests. Yet, many of these establishments lack the rich cultural and historical essence that defines a truly immersive experience.

India, with its wealth of palaces and heritage sites, presents a unique opportunity to blend history, luxury, art and tradition with a stay. And this is what an increasing number of palaces and former royal abodes have begun offering by opening their doors to travellers, allowing them to live like a royal, or at least an erstwhile royal.

Boasting splendid architecture, expansive grounds spread over acres and a treasure trove of culture and traditions, guests at these properties can not only enjoy world-class comfort but also feel a deep connection to a vibrant cultural legacy.

Though there are perhaps hundreds of such former palaces that have become hotels today, here are some breath-taking heritage sites–turned-hotels that are redefining hospitality by offering travellers an amalgamation of luxury, grandeur and culture.

Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Rambagh Palace, a cherished gem with Mughal architecture, lush gardens, and sandstone balustrades [Photo: Taj Groups website]

Rambagh Palace, a cherished gem with Mughal architecture, lush gardens, and sandstone balustrades (Photo: Taj Hotels)

One of most well-known palace-hotels in India is Rambagh Palace, situated in the heart of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. A much-cherished property dotted with Mughal architecture, lush gardens and sandstone balustrads, Rambagh Palace once served as a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge.

Over the years, distinguished personalities like Jackie Kennedy, wife of President John F Kennedy of the United States, Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom and Justice of Supreme Court of the United States Ruth Bader Ginsberg have stayed at the palace in the Pink City, either as hotel guests or guests of the former royal family. Managed by the Taj Group of hotels now, Rambagh Palace has maintained its grandeur for all guests.

This hotel, often referred to as the ‘Jewel of Jaipur’ is spread over 1,90,202 sqm of land, boasting 78 beautifully restored rooms and suites, adorned with Rajasthani artwork and hallways and gardens filled with traditional hand-carved marble Jalis, net and chhatris, a semi-open, elevated, dome-shaped pavillion.

Guests can also relish some of best fine dining experiences at Suvarna Mahal, a former palace ballroom that has been turned into a restaurant.

Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur

Royal portraits, vibrant chandeliers, and grand balconies define this Mewar palace turned hotel (Photo: HRH Group of Hotels website)

Royal portraits, vibrant chandeliers, and grand balconies define this Mewar palace turned hotel (Photo: HRH Group of Hotels)

Walls adorned with royal portraits, vibrant chandeliers, arched doorways and grand balconies, this property, belonging to the former rulers of Mewar, exudes extravagance in its every nook and corner.

Situated on the banks of beautiful Lake Pichola, this crescent shaped palace, originally built as a private residence for the then ruler of Udaipur, Fateh Singh was then converted into a royal guest house before finally transforming into a luxurious hotel, has hosted several dignitaries in its lifetime.

The palace has 17 suites, each a little different than other in design, with varying hues and furniture. Like Rambagh Palace, Shiv Nivas also boasts Rajasthani paintings and architecture, majestic fountains and gardens. One can even witness Rajasthani culture in its glory every evening through the performance of the palace band.

The property also has a fine dine restaurant and bar, namely, Paantya, embellished with Mewari paintings depicting rituals, festivals and hunting scenes.

Ajit Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Vintage-themed rooms with stonewashed walls, and classic furnishings, of Ajit Bhavan exude a timeless grandeur (Photo: The Ajit Group website)

Vintage-themed rooms with stonewashed walls, and classic furnishings, of Ajit Bhavan exude a timeless grandeur (Photo: The Ajit Group)

Built in 1927, this residence of then ruler of Jodhpur, Ajit Singh, was later transformed into the first heritage hotel of India by his descendant Swaroop Singh in the 1970s. Each corner of this enchanting property echoes its rich history and culture.

Almost 100 years later, the hotel stands as a testament to luxury and grandeur, where each of the 65 rooms offers a unique experience and glimpse into its storied past. These rooms, distinct in themes and architecture, have been thoughtfully decorated to reflect the opulence of the vintage era, through stonewashed walls, carved jharokhas or stone windows, age-old furniture and lanterns, while providing guests all the luxurious and modern amenities.

Though open to all guests, a part of Ajit Bhawan is closed off and where the erstwhile royal family still lives, making the stay here more enriching for travellers.

The in-house restaurants, Dhani and Dive and Dine, provide guests an opportunity to dig into the mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisine, following age-old recipes in a serene and regal setting.

Jehan Numa Palace, Bhopal

This petite property blends ancient architecture with modern style seamlessly (Photo: Jehan Numa Group of Hotels Website)

This petite property blends ancient architecture with modern style seamlessly (Photo: Jehan Numa Group of Hotels)

Located atop the magnificent Shamla Hills, in the ‘Land of Begums’, the Jehan Numa Palace Hotel in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, serves as a redolent of Italian Renaissance, Greek architecture and the British Colonial era.

The petite and charming property seamlessly blends ancient architecture with modern style and structure living up to its royal status. The palace is a testament of the iconic reign of the Nawab Begums of Bhopal, their progressive worldview and elegant aesthetic.

The 5-star hotel has 100 rooms and six suites adorned with ethnic furnishings and local stone, opening into balconies, courtyards, swimming pool or the horse-riding track.

Guests staying at the Jehan Numa Palace can also relish a unique yet traditional menu influenced by the recipes passed down by the Begums of Bhopal in its four restaurants.

Apart from the palace hotel, the Jehan Numa Group of Hotels also have other properties including the Bori Safari Lodge, Reni Pani Jungle Lodge located in the Bori Wildlife sanctuary and Satpura National Park and Tiger Reserve respectively. These properties offer guests a chance to experience a luxurious stay amidst the tranquillity and raw beauty of nature. The Jehan Numa Retreat, an intimate boutique resort is another property of the group located on the outskirts of Bhopal.

Naini Retreat, Nainital

The Naini Retreat Hotel, former residence of Maharaja of Pilibhit is one of the oldest heritage properties of Nainital [Photo: Leisure hotels website]

The Naini Retreat Hotel is one of the oldest heritage properties of Nainital (Photo: Leisure Hotels)

Experience the richness of Kumaon history in the lap of nature at this gorgeous property situated on the slopes of the picturesque Ayarpatta hills in Nainital in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. The Naini Retreat Hotel, former residence of Maharaja of Pilibhit is one of the oldest heritage properties of Nainital.

The quaint property is surrounded by stunning views of the Naini Lake and Ayarpatta slopes. It offers its guests a chance to witness European architecture and colonial charm while enjoying bespoke luxury and scrumptious Kumaon cuisine.

The intricately designed part of this palace is the Maharaja Wing, accessorised brass antiques, mirrors, decades old furniture and a private library with an old-world charm.

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

60 luxurious rooms and suites of this property blend traditional charm with modern comfort (Photo: Taj Hotels website)

60 luxurious rooms and suites of this property blend traditional charm with modern comfort (Photo: Taj Hotels)

Bearing an unparalleled historical legacy, Taj Falakuma Palace ascertains that every guest feels like a Nizam through its opulent interiors and exceptional offerings.  Perched on a hilltop in Hyderabad in Telangana, it offers panoramic views of the city to its guests.

The palace-hotel features 60 luxurious rooms and suite, designed to offer a blend of traditional roots and modern comfort. During their stay, guests can take guided tours of the property, deep diving into the history and architecture of the property, the tours include visits to main hall, dining areas and also the private quarters.

The hotel offers a range of dining options, including fine dining and multi-cuisine restaurants with international dishes. However, for an authentic taste of Hyderabad, guests can dine at its restaurant Adaa, where the rich flavours and elaborate traditions of a Nizam’s feast are brought to life through traditional Hyderabadi cuisine.

The palace also houses the Nizam’s remarkable collection of antiques, including vintage cars, priceless artifacts, and rare manuscripts.

Stok Palace, Ladakh

A 200-year-old boutique hotel blending Ladakhi heritage with authentic, memorable experiences (Photo: Stoke Palace Heritage Hotel website)

A 200-year-old boutique hotel blending Ladakhi heritage with authentic, memorable experiences (Photo: Stoke Palace Heritage Hotel)

Embodiment of Ladakhi culture and heritage, the 200-year-old Stok Palace, today is a beautiful boutique hotel offering guests an experience that encapsulates the legacy, traditions and authenticity of this mesmerising land.

A stay at this hotel is similar to living inside a museum, with the rich history of Namgyal dynasty adorning every corner of this place. The Stok Palace is one of the very few royal residences remaining in the region.

The property also houses a museum showcasing a rare collection of ancient manuscripts, traditional Ladakhi clothing, royal artifacts, and thangkas, Buddhist scroll paintings.

The hotel has 12 rooms, located in heritage wing of the palace. Visitors can also explore the rooms used by the former royal family, the prayer room and the audience hall.

Belgadia Palace, Mayurbhanj, Odisha

An art haven featuring elements of Georgian decor and Victorian architecture (Photo: The Belgadia Palace website)

An art haven featuring elements of Georgian decor and Victorian architecture (Photo: The Belgadia Palace)

A tropical art sanctuary constructed with elements of Georgian décor and Victorian style architecture, Belgadia Palace initially built to facilitate as a residence for the guests of the then royal family has now been refurbished into a hotel, brimming with regality and style. It also served as the summer residence for the royal family.

The palace has 10 beautifully decorated rooms available for guests, adorned with antique furnishings, vintage decor, and luxurious fabrics, reflecting the royal heritage of the Maharajas. The property is located five hours away from the capital of Odisha is surrounded by the wildlife and natural beauty of Odia countryside.

The guests staying at the hotel also get a chance to interact with the members of the erstwhile royal family who are actively involved in the day-to-day operations and hosting activities adding an authentic touch to the experience. The restaurants here, offer guests a chance to taste of traditional Odia cuisine.

Brijrama Palace, Varanasi

The palace features exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture with intricate carvings

The palace features exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture with intricate carvings (Photo: Brij Hotels)

This stunning 210-year-old property standing magnificently at the banks of the Darbhanga Ghat, is one of the oldest hotels in the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.

The residence of the then rulers of Varanasi, meticulously restored into a hotel has also paved its way to the Michelin Guide’s experts at Tablet Hotels, 2022.

The palace features exquisite Indo-Saracenic architecture with intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and grand courtyards. Each of its 32 rooms is decorated with traditional artwork and antique furniture; some of them also offer stunning views of the River Ganges.  The hotel also features a restaurant offering traditional Indian and international cuisines.

Brijrama Palace also arranges cultural activities for its guests, such as traditional music performances, dance, and guided tours of Varanasi’s historic sites, ghats and temples.

Taj Usha Kiran Palace, Gwalior

The hotel is adorned with local artwork, handcrafted tiles, and murals telling the palace’s rich history (Photo: Taj Hotels website)

The hotel is adorned with local artwork, handcrafted tiles and murals telling the palace’s rich history (Photo: Taj Hotels)

The 114-year heritage hotel in Gwalior is an erstwhile palace, transformed into a lavish hotel with a regal legacy. The palace, completed in 1880, has been the venue of many royal gatherings and an abode for international dignitaries.

Taj Usha Kiran Palace features 50 rooms, suits, luxury tents and a luxury villas, complete with a private pool. The rooms of the property have been adorned with local artwork, handcrafted tiles and hand painted murals narrating the rich history of the erstwhile palace.

Guests can enjoy views of the magnificent Gwalior fort and relish delectable food during their stay. The restaurants at Usha Kiran Palace offer some of the best dining experiences with options ranging from authentic regional dishes to international cuisines.

These palatial properties are not merely places to stay but also windows to India’s royal past, transforming each visit into an experience and a journey through time.

 

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